BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES VIDEO SERIES HIGHLIGHTING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS IN THE SUWANNEE VALLEY
Fenneman, D. K.1; Broughton, D.2; Capasso, J.3; Tomlinson, P.4; Barrett, C.51CED EA II - AG, University of Florida, MADISON, FL, 32340
2RSA, UF/IFAS, Live Oak, FL, 32064
3Extension Agent, UF/IFAS, Lake City, FL, 32055
4Extension Agent, UF/IFAS, Lake City, FL, 32055
5RSA, UF/IFAS, Live Oak, FL, 32064
Abstract:
In 2019, a group of University of Florida/IFAS Extension agents developed an eight-video series highlighting the historic changes and adoption of Best Management Practices (BMPs) being implemented on farms. The videos feature a variety of successful conservation farming practices in the Suwannee Valley. Some of the practices targeted include; usage and impacts of soil moisture sensors, improved nutrient stewardship, and soil health topics such as rotational grazing systems, conservation tillage, and benefits of cover crops. The videos were launched weekly on social media accounts and YouTube and were used during presentations of local stakeholders to their intended audiences, reinforcement during Extension presentations, and stakeholder websites. In addition to the hundreds of viewers through email blasts and classroom training audiences, all social media metrics provided a total of 18,440 interactions of the videos. The videos averaged a reach of over 2,000 people on Facebook and 165 views on YouTube. The momentum built by this project has stimulated synergy to continue the effort on behalf of the farming community on a broader scale in North Florida.